Instead of Hibernating

When the weather is snowy with a bit of sun winter is pure paradise! Going out hiking or snowshoeing in the crisp air and being dazzled by the bright sunlight I feel intensely alive. That feeling persists when I return home, rosy cheeked, chilled off and wonderfully exhausted. The fragrant hot chocolate never tasted better and a hot foot-bath or a fire in the fire-place warms my limbs like being hugged by a loved one.
However, we all know the winter days – or even weeks – when the light is blocked out by heavy masses of clouds, when a freezing rain never stops falling, and when our energy feels as blocked as the light. If we could, we would go into hibernation.
During such grey and wet winter periods, when even our souls seem to freeze, we must not give in to depressive thoughts, but instead remember Theroux’ quote:
Recover and Prepare!

In what way can we recover from the warm seasons’ overload of activities and events? How do we restore our vital energies?
1. Rest when your body says rest. Take the time to get proper sleep, take naps and relax
2. Go out every day, even if only for half an hour. Dress warmly and defy the cold – it will do you good
2. Cultivate stillness within you. Meditation, solitude, music- and speech-free moments
3. Breathe consciously. During your day, stop and enjoy your breathing.
4. Nourish your body wholeheartedly. Healthy, home made (preferably warm) food, ecological skin care… Consider vitamin D supplements – nobody gets enough from the sun in winter, due to the inclination of sun rays.

Just like Nature prepares for spring, we can use the cold, dark winter months to prepare for the return of the light:
1. Clear out the old. Remove pictures from your computer/cell phone or clothes you do not use anymore.
2. Learn something new – why not the names of the birds visiting your bird-table or more about the plants in your backyard. Name, family, health benefits. One name a day!
3. Let go of what isn’t serving you. Make a list of what weighs you down or spreads negativity in your life. Find tangible ways to let go of these situations, habits or people.
4. Reignite Relationships. Old acquaintances and friends we have neglected – perhaps we send them a nice card or suggest a get-together in spring?

Remaining indoors, brooding over the darkness and cold leads us nowhere, but (worst case) into depression. Instead, find out in what ways you can use the cold season to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Recover & prepare for spring. It will come soon enough ☺